ESTA - Electronic System for Travel Authorization
On the 01 August 08, the US government introduced the ESTA programme (electronic system for travel authorization) which is the new procedure for applying for access to the US and is which will currently be running simultaneously with the I-94 (the green card you fill in on every flight to the US).
On the 12 January 2009, the I-94 will no longer be in use and the ESTA will be become mandatory.
The ESTA is very similar to the automated visa that you purchase to enter Australia and is completely paperless.
You can complete this by clicking on this link www.cbp.gov/travel and it will ask for the same information that you would give on the I-94 – full names, passport numbers etc so ensure you have them to hand when you want to fill it in.
Once you’ve entered your details, you’ll receive an application number. Once approved, you can print this off and take with you when you travel. It’s strongly recommended that you keep a note of your approval code so that you can update your information in the future, should anything change.
The APIS information you provide to the airline (Advance Passenger Information System) is separate and you will need to provide information for both services. They are run by two different government bodies and run separately.
Please note this is not in place of a visa and should you be declined or have required a visa in the past, then you must contact the US embassy and apply for a visa as usual. You can find them at www.usembassy.org.uk
